QUICK CITY GUIDE - PRAGUE
Prague, or Praha in Czech, is the capital and the largest city of Czech republic located in Central Europe. It’s an old medieval town dating back a thousand years. Prague is also known as The City of Hundred Spires, because of all the towers on cathedrals and rotundas in the city center. Prague city guide
The beauty of Prague can be compared Paris or Venice, but it has its own particular mystical charms and atmosphere. The center, which is UNESCO Heritage Site, is weaved with cobblestone alleys; Gothic churches are mixed with art nouveau style buildings; Vltava River is flowing lazily with people relaxing on its shores or watching sunset from pedal boats; and streets are lined with cafes and pubs where you can sample some delicious Czech treats or order a pint of famous Czech beer. Prague city guide
Prague is a paradise for all the aimless wanderers because something amazing is waiting for you at every corner. The potential for exploration is endless and I always love coming back here. If you haven’t been to Prague yet, make sure you’ll add it to your next European itinerary and this quick city guide is here to help you. Prague city guide
GENERAL INFORMATION
Czech Koruna (CZK): 1 EUR = 27 CZK / 1 USD = 25 CZK
Czech language, but you should be able to communicate in English or German.
The best exchange rate is usually obtained when withdrawing money from an ATM rather than going to a currency exchange agency. ATMs in Prague accept credit and debit cards and you should be able to find them anywhere in the city centre. Many restaurants have EFTPOS terminals but have some cash ready. Some places may accept Euros but it’s more of an exception rather than rule.
Prague is a year round destination. The busiest times are July and August, when kids in most European countries have school holidays, and winter when Christmas markets are up. The weather in Prague varies dramatically between the seasons so be prepared for high temperatures in summer while winters can get below 0. Summer is definitely the most popular time to visit Prague, so be prepared for crowded public spaces.
If you are already in Europe, you can get easily to Prague by train or bus, for example the Eurail pass gives you unlimited train travel (for an amount of time chosen by you) around Europe. Other option is to fly to the Prague International Airport that connects most of the world.
Once in Prague, the public transport is quite easy to use. Prague is connected by metro, buses, and tram, which is free. Taxis are also available, but the drivers often try to take advantage of foreigners, so better use Uber.
Power plugs type E with the standard voltage 230 V.
Prague is relatively safe city, however, with increasing amount of tourists visiting every year, petty crimes and pick-pocketing can occur (just like in any other big European metropole).
BEST PLACES TO SEE
The most significant monument of Czech Republic and an important cultural institution. Golden Alley is a small alley located on the castle grounds that will take you to the past and show you how people used to live in medieval times.
Pearl among libraries set in a gorgeous baroque building.
The Powder Tower is one of the original Gothic city gates.
Historic pedestrian bridge from the 14th century that crosses the Vltava River. It’s decorated with 30 statues of saints in baroque-style and it is a popular place for street performers and vendors.
Colorful unofficial memorial dedicated to the legend. It’s a popular place to take photos.
Czech Orloj is the third oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still operating. Every full hour masses of tourists group in front of it for a short show.
The largest church in Czech Republic located on the Old Town Square.
Important architectural landmark from the 12th century featuring beautiful library, baroque church and a grand hall.
Wenceslas Square is commercial and administrative hub of the city and the biggest square in Prague full of shops, cafes and restaurants.
A historic fort located on the east bank of Vltava River, built in 10th century. From the Upper Castle you can get great views on the Old Town.
TOP THINGS TO DO
- Get lost in the alleys of historic Jewish Quarter, learn about the legend of Golem and sample some Golem cookies.
- Hire a pedal boat on Vltava River at sunset.
- Walk up to Petřín Tower – the Eiffel tower of Prague, from where you get beautiful views over the city.
- Stroll around Letná Hill.
- Explore the other side of Vltava River – Malá Strana, small historic neighborhood of Prague with many cute museums and galleries.
- Take a photo with the Dancing House, an iconic Design Hotel made of steel and glass.
- Relax in Stromovka Park.
- Discover the “modern and younger” side of Prague at Manifesto food markets and Art&Food Zoona, which are the popular places to hang out, drink cocktails and eat while outdoors.
WHERE TO STAY
Prague offers its visitors accommodation for all budgets – from stylish youth hostels and Airbnbs, to upscale hotels in the center.
- Czech Inn Prague
- Artharmony Prague
- Miss Sophie’s – for couples
- Hotel Cloister Inn
- Castle Steps
- Hotel Absolutum
- K+K Hotel Central
- Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa
- Aria Hotel Prague
FOOD & DRINKS
Local Food
Svíčkova na smetaňe – marinated sirloin with creamy sauce
Vepřo-knedlo-zelo – roasted pork with sauerkraut and Czech steamed dumplings
Garlic soup – good as an entrée on a cold day
Moravský vrabec – Moravian sparrow – it’s actually a popular pork dish served with cabbage and dumplings
Tatarák – Beef steak tartare served with toasted bread and garlic
Bramborák – fried potato pancake, can be bought in a street food stall
Buchty – sweet steamed buns filled with jam and sprinkled with poppy seeds or walnuts and sugar
Cockail Bars
- Parlour – near Wenceslas Square, where they’ll make you special cocktails according to your wishes (they don’t have menu, each cocktail is original)
- Hemingway Pub – good place to try famous Czech absinthe
- Tretter’s – luxurious bar in 1930s style
- BeerGeek Bar – for all beer lovers! They have 30 different craft beers on tap
Restaurants
- Dish Fine Burger Bistro – the best burgers in Prague
- U Pinkasu restaurant – traditional Czech cuisine
- Café Imperial – upscale café located in historical building with lavish décor
- La Degustation – high dining of traditional Czech dishes
- U Fleku restaurant – traditional pub near Vltava river
EXTRA TIPS
- Tipping in restaurants and bars is commonly expected but not required. It makes usually 10% on top of the bill.
- In comparison to Budapest or Bratislava, Prague is more expensive and also more crowded, especially in peak season.
- The best way to learn the incredible rich history of Prague and get to know all the legends is joining a walking tour.
- For more insightful info about Prague, check out The Honest Guide videos on YouTube. He is Prague local, but as his name suggests, he is very honest about it!
SOUVENIRS TO BUY
- Český Granát (Czech garnet) – semi-precious stone with a long tradition as a royal gem in Czech Republic
- Beer cosmetics – Czech Republic is well-known for its beer and they even started to make natural cosmetics from it. Check out brand Manufaktura renowned around the world for its great quality.
- Wooden toys and marionettes
- Famous Czech herbal liquor Becherovka
- Posters and pictures by Alphonse Mucha, famous Czech Art Nouveau painter. For the best selection of his artwork visit Mucha Museum located near Jewish Quarter.
Have you been to Prague? Or would you like to visit this city? What was your favorite thing to do here? If you are planning a trip to Prague and Central Europe, don’t miss out on Budapest and Vienna as well!
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